As a special education math teacher, I am always looking for new ways to introduce cool math games to my students. Frankly, I must tell you that unless there is some technology involved, it is like pulling teeth with these kids. However, if you give kids a computer or an iPod, then all of the sudden math isn’t so bad. Therefore, I am going to share some of my favorite cool math tricks with you.
Cool Math 4 Kids
Cool Math 4 Kids is an online website that does exactly what it says. It has tons of free games for the kids to play online. The kids do not need anything special to play. They do not need a user name or password. They do not need a lightning fast computer. All they need is a mediocre computer that connects to the Internet.
The games are Flash Games meaning the play in little windows without a download. Most computers have this already installed but you can update your computer if you don’t have it installed.
A.A.A. Math
While this site is not as flashy, it does get the job done. It is more of a tutoring site. It starts with kindergarten and goes all the way up to eighth grade. It does some major tutoring and can be quite fun for the kids.
In addition to the math games, the site offers several other subjects as well. The only way to truly understand this site is to go there.
The site is free, although it does ask you to buy a CD. I have used the site for years and have never purchased the CD. It says it is there for faster speeds. This has never been a concern of my students or mine.
iPhone Applications
I did not give a specific site because there are too many. The games vary and are as wide as there are children. You can get sing-a-longs, vocabulary builders, math games, foreign language games, and many more. If you can think of it, then you can get it on an iPhone.
The only problem you will have is getting your kid off the iPhone! Seriously, even the little 3 and 4 year olds love playing games like “Wheels on the Bus” and “ABC Phonics” on this thing. You will not have a problem finding games at the app iTunes store.
If your child is struggling with math, then try using technology. You will be surprised at just how well it works. A little bit of technology goes a long way. Throw in some fun games and kids don’t even know they are learning. You really can make learning fun again with some cool math games [http://edugamesforkids.livejournal.com/285.html] both online and in the palm of your hand.